David Chege
David Chege – Shot Dead Outside Parliament (June 2024)
David Chege (c. 1985–2024), a software engineer and Sunday school teacher, was fatally shot by police during anti-tax Gen Z protests outside the National Assembly in Nairobi on **25 June 2024**.
Incident
On 25 June 2024, as protesters stormed the Parliament precincts during demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024, David Chege was shot in the head by a police officer stationed at the gate. He was not engaged in violence; eyewitnesses reported he was retreating when struck. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Funerals and Family Tributes
His body was laid to rest on **9 July 2024** in Mangu Village, Gatundu North. Family and activists—including Boniface Mwangi—draped the Kenyan flag over his coffin. His father described him as a caring teacher, and mourners called for justice for his unlawful killing. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Government and Public Reaction
- **Family lawsuit:** In August 2024, Chege’s family sued the police and filed a petition seeking the prosecution of the officers responsible. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- **Political response:** Authorities claimed the officer was restoring order amid violent protest. Civil society groups condemned the use of live ammunition on unarmed civilians. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Legacy
David Chege’s death became emblematic of the brutal crackdown on peaceful protests. His case was highlighted in the BBC Africa Eye documentary *Blood Parliament*, which exposed security force violence. His name continues to be used in demands for accountability and police reform. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
References